How to create a welcoming and relaxing outside space

Our gardens, patios and balconies have become more important than ever over the past few years. But how do you create a relaxing alfresco space that's perfect for chilling out with family and friends?

The answer is to create what's known as the 'fifth room' – an outdoor seating area that becomes an extension of your living space. By thinking of your garden as an extra room, and applying similar decorating principles to those you would use inside your home, you can design a truly comfortable and relaxing space.

GET FLEXIBLE WITH YOUR SEATING

In our book, relaxation means comfort, so it's crucial to make sure your balcony, terrace or garden has plenty of comfortable seating. Forget about old-fashioned upright garden chairs, and instead, go for super comfy outdoor sofas and lounger chairs to help you stretch out and relax.

Cushions need to be luxuriously soft so that you can switch off as you sit down enjoy that relaxing glass of wine or cup of hot chocolate in the great outdoors. Sectional furniture works really well for outdoor spaces because it provides plenty of space for guests and can be easily changed around according to your needs.

Just as you would in your indoor living room, make sure you have handy side tables positioned next to your seating for drinks and nibbles. It's worth remembering that round tables work well in smaller spaces because they take up less room, and additional folding tables are a good idea because they can easily be stored away in a shed or garage when not in use.

EMBRACE TEXTURE IN YOUR OUTSIDE SPACE

Incorporating lots of interesting textures in your outdoor scheme is a key part of bringing the indoors out. So add in colourful rugs, mirrors and decorative items, just as you would do inside while making sure all your materials are weather resistant.

"Add a variety of different pillows. There are so many great weather-resistant prints and pattern options to style outdoor furniture with.” – Yoselin Castro, Senior Designer at Arizona-based Mackenzie Collier Interiors

The trend for natural and sustainable materials lends itself perfectly to outdoor living. Teak is a great choice for furniture which can stay outside all year round, and bamboo or rattan side tables are a good way to bring in texture while being light enough to be easily moved inside when it rains.

Wood has a wonderfully warming effect, so you could also consider cladding the walls that surround your outside entertaining area to create a textural, natural backdrop. Trellis can be added to walls to achieve a similar effect. Why not use it for beautiful climbing plants such as clematis, wisteria or fragrant jasmine?

CHOOSE HARD-WEARING FABRICS DESIGNED FOR OUTDOOR USE

Make sure any fabrics you choose for an outdoor sofa or cushions can withstand the elements and are easy to clean. Our soft and luxurious FibreGuard Outdoor fabrics are colourfast, highly durable and resistant to mildew and odours, making them perfect for use in your outdoor living area. They are also stain-resistant, even to sun cream, making them perfect for summer use.

Statement pieces such as a hanging egg chair, day bed or upholstered swing seat make a real impact and can form an eye-catching focal point for your outdoor scheme. Over-sized floor cushions and comfy ottomans are another way to bring a textural element outside, and they will encourage your guests to relax in your beautiful outdoor entertaining zone.

WARM THINGS UP WITH AN OUTDOOR FIRE PIT OR BARBECUE

There are few things more relaxing in life than warming yourself by the fire. And the great thing about adding a fire pit or chiminea to your outdoor set-up is that it extends the use of your outdoor space well into the evening when things can get a little chilly.

You may even consider incorporating an outdoor fireplace into your garden landscaping to create a beautiful focal point for your fresh air entertaining. And while we've seen a huge rise in the popularity of outdoor kitchens, if your budget can only stretch to a barbecue, it can easily double up as a warming fire once the cooking is done. And who can resist toasting marshmallows on the burning embers to get that campfire vibe?

"Lighting and textiles can transform your outdoor area and shouldn't be overlooked, especially when working with a smaller space. We are a huge fan of festoon lights which can be left out all year round and require minimum effort for maximum impact." – Dani Taylor, Creative Director of UK-based interiors brand Cox & Cox

Lanterns and candles can be dotted around the space to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Solar lights which come on once the sun sets are also a great way to add extra lighting after dark. Place them in planters in the corners of your seating area to frame your entertaining space and provide visual interest.